Manx Care’s Annual Report, covering the period from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026, has revealed that the healthcare provider is operating in a £14.9 million deficit.
Additionally, the average wait time for a first consultant-led outpatient appointment has risen to 56 weeks, and 18% more patients are now spending over 12 hours in the Emergency Department than over the previous 12 months.
Within the report, Manx Care say they recognise the need to tackle the aforementioned issues, and work to improve these outcomes, including clinical reviews of waiting lists and better appointment booking, closer coordination of urgent care and expanded alternatives to hospital admission, alongside stronger financial forecasting and budget accountability to support financial recovery.
Interim CEO of Manx Care, Dr Chris Stockport, added: “Our colleagues continue to work hard to provide safe, compassionate care in a demanding environment.
“We recognise the significant challenges we face, including long waiting times and financial pressures, and are committed to being open about these pressures, making the best use of our resources and delivering lasting improvements for patients and service users.”
Not All Bad News
Despite the decidedly ominous headlines, the report highlights progress in supporting people closer to home and improving their experience of care.
Intermediate Care accepted 1,212 referrals, a 60% increase on the previous year, helping people regain independence and avoid unnecessary hospital stays.
Meanwhile, the Community Wellbeing Service scheduled first treatment appointments within six weeks for 92.6% of new patients referred, while 92.4% of Friends and Family Survey respondents rated their care good or very good, up from 90% the previous year.